When it comes to pond care, algae can be a major concern for pond owners as it can quickly make their beautiful water feature look dirty and unappealing. Though a small amount of algae is normal for most ponds, it can quickly get out of hand if left unchecked. As experts in water features and ecosystem ponds, the team at Fontana Ponds & Water Features understands the importance of algae management. That is why our team has compiled a list of 3 ways to treat and control pond algae to help you keep your pond healthy, balanced, and looking great.
Learn about 3 reasons to add fish to your pond.
What are Algae?
Algae are primitive plants that produce oxygen for your pond during the day and consume oxygen in the pond at night. Pond algae can be classified into two distinct types: suspended and string.
Suspended
Also known as green water algae, suspended algae are single-celled organisms that reproduce at a rapid rate. An abundance of suspended algae can quickly make your pond water look green and cloudy. Due to the small size of the algae cells, most common filtration media is too porous to catch and remove them from your pond. An abundance of suspended algae is often caused by too much sunlight or an excessive amount of nutrients in the pond.
String
Also known as hair algae, string algae are a filamentous type of algae that typically attach themselves to various surfaces in the pond such as rocks and plants. String algae can be difficult to remove as they are surprisingly durable and reproduce quickly. Much like suspended algae, string algae blooms are caused by an imbalance in the pond such as excessive nutrients or too much sunlight exposure.
3 Methods for Controlling Suspended and String Algae
The following techniques are proven methods of controlling algae and increasing the appeal of your pond:
1. Add Plants
In most ponds, fish produce nutrients that are absorbed by plants, leaving little sustenance for algae. Some ecosystem ponds may not possess enough plants to absorb all the nutrients left by fish, causing a buildup that produces an ideal environment for rapid algae growth. To minimize excess nutrients and create more shade for your pond, consider adding more plants. Floating plants and submerged plants are both great choices as they will create shade and absorb excess nutrients, starving algae and preventing it from building up.
2. Use Water Treatments
If you are dealing with an excessive buildup of algae, adding plants may not be the fastest or most effective solution. To remove algae that have formed on top of your pond, consider using a net to remove it from the surface, connection points, waterfalls, and other areas. After removing it, use a water treatment product according to the precise application instructions. This can quickly remove algae and limit any future infestations. If your pond has fish, ensure that you are using treatment options that will not harm them.
3. Choose High-Quality Fish Food
When it comes to fish food, it is never worth choosing cheap options. Low-quality fish food is never fully digested by fish, resulting in excess waste that can be absorbed by algae. High-quality fish food is often fully digested, leaving little to no nutrients for algae. In addition to food quality, it is crucial to ensure that you are not overfeeding your fish. Any food that is not eaten can become nourishment for algae, causing it to grow at an unmanageable speed.
To learn more about pond care or to inquire about our water feature design and installation services, get in touch with the team at Fontana Ponds & Water Features. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our services.